1998 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 576 kg more than 1998 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Dodge Ram (552 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser. 2012 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Laser | Ram |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 552 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3560 mm |
